City news in 250 words

PLANS are in place to have a Times Square style New Year's Eve event in Manchester. Celebrations are to take place on Albert Square by the town hall. A fireworks display is currently being considered by Manchester City Council. Councillor Mike Amesbury, of Manchester City Council told the BBC: “We will certainly be putting forward a strong case for providing a celebration in Manchester.”

JORDELL BANK, one of the world's most advanced observatories, has been saved from closure. The Cheshire-based astronomy centre was at risk of closure after an £80m shortfall in the budget. Professor Alan Gilbert told the BBC: “We are delighted that the STFC has recognised the scientific importance and that they have provided a commitment to fund these important projects, which will guarantee the future of Jodrell Bank.”

VILLAGERS in Gatley are fighting to stop a twelfth supermarket being built around their village. Gatley in Stockport is surrounded by supermarkets including five Tescos, a Morrisons, two Asdas, two Sainsbury's, and a Waitrose- all within a ten minute drive from the centre of the village. Campaigners say a further store would kill-off village life.

THE TRIAL of former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has begun in Bangkok. The court will hear allegations that he used his political influence to help his wife buy a plot of prime Bangkok real estate from the central bank at one-third of its estimated value. The trial is expected to be done by early September. The couple deny the charges.

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